W. O. Caswell Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
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Summary
O. Caswell Dam, located in Anacoco, Louisiana, stands as a testament to both engineering prowess and environmental stewardship. Built in 1984, this earth dam on East Anacoco Creek serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a tranquil retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. With a height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 122 acre-feet, the dam provides not only a picturesque lake but also vital flood control measures for the surrounding area.
Managed by a private owner but regulated by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, W. O. Caswell Dam boasts a controlled spillway and a low hazard potential, ensuring the safety of its downstream communities. Despite its fair condition assessment in 2017, the dam's risk assessment remains very high, underscoring the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate potential risks. With a surface area of 12.2 acres and a drainage area of 0.5 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in Vernon, Louisiana.
As water resources become increasingly scarce and climate change impacts intensify, structures like W. O. Caswell Dam serve as vital components in our infrastructure, providing not only recreational opportunities but also essential flood protection and water storage capabilities. With a commitment to sound engineering practices and ongoing risk management measures, this dam stands as a beacon of resilience in the face of environmental challenges. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, W. O. Caswell Dam is both a symbol of human ingenuity and a reminder of the interconnectedness between water, climate, and community well-being.
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Length |
428 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
EAST ANACOCO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
122 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bayou Toro Near Toro
|
35cfs |
Sabine Rv At Toledo Bd Res Nr Burkeville
|
164cfs |
Sabine Rv Nr Burkeville
|
302cfs |
Bayou Anacoco Near Rosepine
|
124cfs |
Bundick Ck Nr De Ridder
|
70cfs |
Sabine Rv Nr Bon Wier
|
762cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
W. O. Caswell Dam